In 2014, something called the Multidimensional Poverty helped researchers determine that there are 1.6 billion poor people on earth! When you read through Scripture, it soon becomes clear that God has always had a particular concern for the poor, the forgotten, and the vulnerable (Deuteronomy 10:18, 15:11). And when Jesus spoke His Sermon on the Mount, it’s not surprising that He first blesses the poor (Matthew 5:3). So if we’re to be about God’s business, shouldn’t we bless those who God blesses?
If He blesses the poor (Matthew 5:3), shouldn’t we bless them with education, health care, work opportunities, and our presence?
If God blesses those who mourn (Matthew 5:4), shouldn’t we bless them with listening ears, comforting arms, practical help, and home visits?
If He blesses the humble and pure in heart (Matthew 5:5,8), shouldn’t we encourage them in their journeys and learn from their ways?
If God blesses those who hunger for justice (Matthew 5:6), shouldn’t we support their fight for a fair wage or join in their anti-trafficking campaigns?
If He blesses the merciful (Matthew 5:7), shouldn’t we support those who visit hospitals, rehabilitate prisoners, and befriend the addicted—selflessly extending His mercy to others?
If God blesses those who work for peace (Matthew 5:9), shouldn’t we stand with those who choose nonviolent ways to help liberate their oppressed people?
And if He blesses the persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12), shouldn’t we support the abused and those who suffer every day for their faith?
We’re to imitate God “in everything [we] do” (Ephesians 5:1), follow His teaching (Luke 6:40), and be the hands and feet of Jesus (1 Corinthians 12:27). May we bless what He blesses—serving others with the compassion He provides.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Acts 1:12-26
More:
Read Isaiah 58:6 and consider God’s heart for the hurting and oppressed.
Next:
How engaged are you with the world’s suffering? Which people group is God stirring your heart to bless?
Gary Shultz on October 6, 2015 at 6:38 am
One thing for sure there is as wide selection of people as there are needs. A staggering sweep of needs; with war, weather and other devastating events, the list grows each day. Some may call this a cop-out, but I have found it more effective to support ministries like Samaritan’s Purse. I do not know the scope of needs as well as those orgs so I give to them. Most will allow a target area of need that you may prefer. I think it wise to pray for them as they go, to pray for areas and people I can not see, know or understand the scope of need. God does. Thanks
Tom Felten on October 6, 2015 at 8:20 am
Sheridan, compassionate care for the needy truly does reflect the heart of God. What I’ve experienced during various times of serving those in need—whether neighbors or those we served on a missions trip—is that the blessing truly goes both ways. As we reach out with God’s love there’s great blessing that we receive as we share!
Adriel L. on October 6, 2015 at 11:18 am
Thanks for sharing, Sheridan. I’m not sure verse 3 refers to those who are materially poor. I’ve always understood it as referring to those who are “poor in spirit” – those who recognise that they are spiritually poor and that they need God, but not necessarily lacking in material possessions.
In any case, it is still a good thing to bless those who are materially poor, and Jesus does command us to do that elsewhere.